Introducing the XLT by Zero3 Controls
The XLT talks to the Legacy System as if it were a human user, sitting next to the controller and constantly asking questions. It takes the data it acquires this way and translates it into a database, a completely common/neutral database that represents a proto-typical supermarket, not wedded to a particular controller. This database is then accessed from the Central Server via the Internet.
XLT Benefits
- Random Access: We get direct small pieces of data from the site, without having to go through multiple screens to get it.
- Commonality: All data accessed is the same, no matter whether the Legacy system is ComTrol, Danfoss, CPC, or Altech.
- Allows for consistent, common and sophisticated algorithms with site data for detailed and productive analysis of failure indications, past records for new ideas, trends & properties for proactive trouble interception.
- Upgrading: Allows for building a futuristic system based on older technology, providing modern advantages while legacy equipment is being replaced over a longer schedule with rational costing.
- New Ideas: Using Random Access and Commonality, ideas such as Global Change of lighting schedules, Energy Optimization, etc. are only a fingertip away.
- The future of such systems is only limited by imagination, yet using them will remain consistent so constant retraining, at tremendous cost, and with extremely highly variable results, is not required.
Why is Random Access Desireable?
Random Access means we get direct small pieces of data from the site, without having to go through multiple screens to get it.
As an example, assume we received an alarm from Site DCA117 where the third circuit, fifth probe, has a temperature above alarm setpoint. An operator deals with the alarm, decides what software to use (30 secs) calls back the store (1 minute), walks through 3-5 screens (1 minute), then studies circuit screens (1 minute), to determine if the case is slowly recovering from defrost or if there is a real problem. Based on results, he may or may not call the store and/or its contractor. Result: 3 to 5 minutes, most of the process dependent on operator decisions and training.
With the XLT's random access, when an alarm arrives, it contains protocol data to access the circuit in question, without going through setup screens. Before handing the alarm to an operator, the receiving computer goes directly to the site in question (10 milliseconds), asks for last defrost termination time (~60 msec), current value of probe (~60 msec), setpoint of the circuit (~60 msec), and probe trend (~60 msec, up/down). Using this data, the receiver may choose to check back 5 minutes later, before involving an operator. It may decide to pass the alarm to an operator immediately. It may decide to call this a false alarm, and just toss it into a recorded bucket. It’s called an Expert System, and it takes about 240 msec to make a decision based on rules established by the best service people around.
When and if the alarm is passed to an operator, the pertinent data is painted on his right hand screen as fast as the site data paints on his left (5 seconds), along with an ‘Action Plan’ to follow in resolving the problem.
